Titans look to bolster backline with NRL veteran Josh Hoffman

The Gold Coast’s recruitment drive is in full swing, with the club looking to secure the services of former Titan and Kiwi international and former Broncos star.

Josh Hoffman may return to the Titans next season. Picture: Dan Himbrechts

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Former Broncos star Josh Hoffman is on the Titans’ recruitment radar as the Gold Coast look to bolster their backline stocks under new coach Justin Holbrook.

As Titans culture chief Mal Meninga ramps up plans to prise Latrell Mitchell from the Roosters, the Gold Coast are looking for more depth, going back to the future by holding preliminary talks with Eels utility back Hoffman.

Hoffman had two ultra-consistent seasons at the Titans in 2015-16, playing 49 consecutive games and helping Gold Coast to the finals in 2016 before being offloaded to the Eels to fund the big-money signing of Jarryd Hayne.

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Josh Hoffman may return to the Titans next season. Picture: Matt King

But with Parramatta battling salary cap pressures, the off-contract Hoffman remains without a home in 2020, opening the door for the Titans to investigate the prospect of an NRL lifeline.

The Courier-Mail understands the Titans have one spot left on their full-time roster for next year at a contract value of around $100,000.

Such a figure is not palatable for NSW Origin ace Mitchell, who could not sign with the Titans until 2021, but the basic deal could be acceptable for Hoffman as he fights to resurrect his 11-year NRL career.

Now 31, Hoffman boasts an impressive NRL resume. He has amassed 189 first-grade games, played five Tests for New Zealand in 2012-13, and was the youngest player at age 22 to win the prestigious Paul Morgan Medal at the Broncos in 2010.

Hoffman starred during his time on the Gold Coast. Picture: Zak Simmonds

Hoffman’s manager Paul Hogan said the durable centre, winger or fullback would relish the opportunity to finish his NRL career with a second coming at the Titans.

“Josh would be a good fit for the Titans,” Hogan said.

“The club has recently re-signed Phillip Sami and AJ Brimson, and Josh, with his experience, would be a great mentor for their younger players.

“Josh loved his first stint at the Gold Coast. He didn’t miss a game in two seasons for the club and he helped the Titans make the finals before he was forced to find another home at Parramatta.

“Being a boy from Mackay, Josh has a great affinity with Queensland and always hoped he could finish his career on home soil.

“Redcliffe brought him down as a 17-year-old and he still owns a house in Brisbane, so Josh would certainly be interested in a return to the Titans.”

The Titans have yet to offer Hoffman a contract, opting to hold informal discussions first to gauge his interest in a possible move to the glitter strip.

Hoffman scored five tries in 10 games last season, including a double against the Broncos, but struggled to consistently hold down a place in Parramatta’s backline.

Hoffman has fielded offers from Super League clubs but the father of three would prefer to remain in Australia and the NRL.